Pittsburgh Greenhouse

I sat through the the 'Fast Track' edition of the FHA-developed home ownership curriculum run by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (www.nfcc.org). Ray GarofaloBank was an excellent instructor. The curriculum steps you though the planning, acquisition, and post-purchase steps of becoming a homeowner.

The full paperwork trail is covered, including details on all of the cost structure. The program includes a very help and in-depth text on the topic which you can read here:

http://www.amazon.com/Homeownership-National-Foundation-Credit-Counseling/dp/0977788024

Next step is to brief the PHCA on the curriculum (which so far has my stinging endorsement) and then contact dollar bank about next steps.

Also, as a side note, with a $1000/month aggressive savings plan put in place by NorthWestern Mutual, I hope to have another $7,500->$10,000 in additional cash savings (in addition to existing savings; for use on down payment and closing costs) available in 16->20 months.

So I should realistically be able to move into my home (or at least break ground on construction) by December 31st 2011!!!!

That's the goal. Stay tuned.